Because our twins live in Europe most of the year, it is hard for them to get to the dentist. If we are on top of things, we make an appointment when it is most likely that they will be home, and not working, but such advanced planning is sloppy at best. 

 

Aurelle had an appointment, which I was cognizant of, and wanted her to keep. What I was not attending to, was the fact that I had a routine visit on the same day. Which is why when the receptionist called the day before to confirm the time, I assumed she was talking about Aurelle. 

 

There is some playing nicely happening at our house this week, what with two cars and six drivers. So I purposely did not go anywhere in the half hour before she would need to leave. But she did not come downstairs. I texted, and there was no answer. She is a grown up, and manages her life quite well in Spain without interventions from me. But this dentist appointment was time-sensitive, so I called. 

 

She was confident that the time was in the afternoon, rather than the morning. I was confused. Then the office called to ask where I was. 

 

Ack! The appointment was mine! I dashed to the car without brushing my teeth... a no no, but oh well, and drove like a semi crazy lady. I parked across the street and considered waiting for the light, but there was a stall in traffic for an ambulance backing up. I figured if jay walking got me a broken leg, the medics were already on the scene, so I bolted. 

 

Feeling embarrassed sitting in the chair with my mouth open, I reviewed my mistakes. Because I had a predetermined idea, namely that it was my daughter they were calling about, I paid no attention when the receptionist called to remind me about me. I had already stopped listening. 

 

I had a rumbling feeling that I do this in other scenarios. My mind is made up, so why bother paying attention? As the hygienist did me the favor of cleaning the plaque off my molars, I mentally resolved to do the same figuratively. 

 

Plus, Aurelle made it to her appointment just fine.